The Wedding Is Off

No Wedding

Lily stepped into the bedroom and stopped on the threshold. Standing in front of her in a wedding dress was Rachel and she looked absolutely radiant. The gown suited her perfectly, fitting her figure and lighting up her entire face with a gentle, almost weightless happiness. Lily couldn’t help but exclaim,

My goodness, Rachel, youre simply glowing! she said, her eyes fixed on her friend. Im so delighted for you! At last, youre ready to turn a new page, to let love back into your life and move on from Nathan! Im so proud of you!

Rachels expression faltered and the smile vanished. She quickly busied herself with the dress, fiddling with the little buttons along the side and avoiding Lilys eyes.

Id better take this off, she mumbled, deftly unfastening the delicate hooks. Theres still two weeks until the ceremony. If anything happens to the dress now, Ill never find another in time.

Lily bit her lip, instantly regretting what shed said. Why mention Nathan now, when Rachel had finally found a good man? Bringing up the past was pointless! Nathan was never worth Rachels tearsespecially after everything hed put her through.

There was once a time Rachel believed Nathan was the one, the only. She’d thought their relationship was forever. But things started to unravelthe little distance creeping in, the excuses to not meet up, then the outright criticism of her choices, her friends, her dreams. He persuaded her to drop her promising project at work, talked her out of a valuable placement abroad, and eventually insisted she switch careers entirely.

Rachels family could only stand by and watch as she changed, as she lost herself. Attempts to talk dissolved into rowsNathan had convinced Rachel her loved ones simply didnt accept him and were out to ruin their perfect love. The tension built until eventually Rachel almost stopped seeing her parents at all.

Then, without warning, he disappeared. No explanation, not even a note. All that remained was a deep emotional woundand a child, whom Rachel had chosen to keep, no matter what.

Now, watching her friend hurriedly peel off the wedding dress, Lily felt a pang of guilt. Shed only wanted to be happy for Rachel, to see her smile. The last thing she meant was to stir up memories best left forgotten.

Little Nathan Junior had just turned four. He was a bright, endlessly curious child, forever asking questions about the world. One moment hed be wondering why the sky was blue, the next hed be chasing after tiny insects on the walk home. His teachers at nursery often praised his witNathan was quick to learn, soaked up stories, and never hesitated to recite poetry.

He spent most of his days with his grandparentsRachels parents. They doted on him, determined to give him a happy, stimulating childhood. It was the grandparents who chose a nursery with extra English lessons, who took him swimming, who enrolled him in dance classes. Rachel only visited her son a few times a week, never staying longer than an hour.

The reason was as simple as it was painful. Nathan Junior looked just like his father: the same brown curls, the same twinkle in his eye, the same half-smile. Every time Rachel held her son or glanced into his face, she was pulled back to those days when she believed shed have it all. She loved Nathan fiercely, was proud of his achievements, cherished every giggle. But the love always came tinged with sharp pain. She would turn away to straighten his jumper or rifle in her bag, wiping her tears when Nathan couldnt see.

One evening, Rachel arrived at her parents for Nathan. He sat on the carpet, frowning in concentration as he built a puzzle. When he spotted his mum, he leapt up and tugged her over.

Mum, look! he cried. Ive almost finished. There’s a house and a tree and soona doggy!

Rachel knelt beside him, making an effort to smile.

Its lovely, she managed, brushing his curls. Youre so careful with the pieces.

Nathan paused, glanced up at her, lips pursed with thought.

Mum, wheres my dad? he asked softly. At nursery, all the kids have dads, only I dont

Rachel froze, her insides twisting, but she kept her tone gentle.

I dont know, darling. Hes far away now. But he thinks of you, honestly.

So why doesnt he ring me? Nathan frowned, as if puzzling over a tricky sum. I couldve told him I learned to tie my shoes!

Heshes just very busy, Rachel murmured, her voice catching, a lump in her throat. But Im sure hes very proud of you.

Nathan thought for a moment, then nodded, apparently satisfied, and returned to his puzzle.

Alright. Then Ill finish this house and Dad will see how clever I am!

Rachel sat quietly, watching him, swallowing tears. She longed to say something, to offer comfort, but no words would come. All she could do was gently stroke his hair, breathing in the sweet scent of childrens shampoo, trying to hold onto this single momenther son beside her, happy and trusting, even as he asked questions she simply couldnt answer.

Still, thoughts of Nathan senior refused to let her go. Rachel clung to excusesmaybe something terrible had happened, maybe he was trapped, unable to get in touch. These hopes kept her afloat, kept despair at bay.

Her family had tried more than once to shake her from the past. Her mum would gently hint that she needed to move onto focus on her son, on life ahead. Friends were blunt: He left you. Its time to accept it and move on! Rachel would argue, recalling their happiness, the promises hed made. Conversations often ended in silence, with her closing off, her friends sighing in defeat.

But she wasnt idleRachel scoured social media for traces of him, phoned old haunts, even posted online asking for news. All to no avail. Yet she couldntperhaps wouldntaccept that Nathan had left willingly and would never return.

And so, after five long years, someone new emerged in Rachels lifea man who gradually melted her heart. It happened almost by chance, at a mutual friends birthday party. Edward quickly drew Rachels attention. He was dependable, theres no better word. Honest, kind, caringsimply a wonderful man.

From their first meeting, Rachel felt it would be easy to be herself around Edward. He never demanded forced cheer or a constant smile. If she was tired, hed simply suggest they go home. If she needed to sit in silence, he let her. Edward was exactly the partner shed been seeking: calm, mature, andmost importantlytruly in love.

He showed it in the little things: remembering her coffee preference, learning her colleagues names, quietly taking care of lifes practicalities. He would have carried her if she asked, and Rachel, truth be told, happily leaned into his devotion.

What really touched her was how well Edward bonded with Nathan. The first time they met, the boy eyed the stranger warily, clinging to his mothers hand. But Edward crouched down to Nathans level and asked which cartoon was his favourite. Within half an hour, they were building a toy castle together, Nathan eagerly showing off his treasures.

Over time, Edward became a regular at Rachels parents house, where Nathan lived. He took the boy to the park, taught him to ride a bike, read him bedtime stories. Once, Rachel found them drawing together, and Edward quietly said, Id like to be a real father to him, if youll let me. Id like to adopt Nathan.

Lily was genuinely happy for her friend. She saw Rachel changingher eyes sparkled again, the constant anxious frown faded away, her smile grew natural, not forced. But today, Lily had blunderedshed accidentally poked Rachels old wound by mentioning Nathan senior. Now, she could only hope Rachel wouldnt be too upset, wouldnt slide back into old gloom.

But, to Lilys surprise, Rachel managed a calm response.

Ive grown up, she said with a gentle smile, folding the dress neatly on the bed. Im starting to realise my feelings for Nathan belong in the past. Sometimes I even regret calling my son Nathan. I was stubborn, didnt listen to a single bit of adviceHow did any of you put up with me?

Lily squeezed her hand.

Will you bring Nathan home, then?

Yes, Rachel replied quickly, now serious. Edwards especially keen. Hes even suggested changing Nathans name, so its easier for me. Anyway, well have to change the birth certificate if he adopts Nathan.

She paused, watching rain streaming down the windowpane.

You know, I used to fear Nathan would always remind me of the past. But I see now I was wrong. Hes my son, and he deserves a proper childhood, with both parents who love him! Grandparents are wonderful, but you cant replace mum and dad. Edward gets it. He really does care about Nathan. You should see how much hes grown attached!

Brilliant idea! Lily brightened. Maybe ask your son which name he likes best? Hell get used to the changes more quickly.

Im not sure yet. Ill think about ittheres still time.

But Rachel wasnt quite being honest. She still loved Nathan, and that feeling never really left. But she knew it had brought her nothing but pain. Her parents, realising her visits only stirred drama and tears, were starting to refuse those visits altogether. Her friends no longer wanted to hear about her problems, quietly doubting her sanity behind closed doors. So it really was time to let go and focus on the present.

On her wedding, for instance.

If only it were that simple!

Edward, everyone would agree, was a good manbut, well, he was not Nathan. Rachel never truly felt for him the deep emotions she still held for her lost love and simply made use of Edwards affection for her own benefit.

If Nathan ever returnedshed give up everything just to be with him.

************************

There isnt going to be a wedding! Rachel declared, eyes alight as she all but danced around the room. Were going our separate ways, like ships passing in the night!

Edward stared in bewilderment, trying to digest her words. It was only a week until the weddingthe menu was planned, flowers picked, guests invited. Everything felt so real, so close And now she was calling it all off?

What do you mean no wedding? he managed, trying to judge if she was simply joking, or deadly serious. Rachel, whats happened? Please, explain.

But Rachel waved him off, flitting about the room, tossing things into an open suitcase, her eyes shining, her lips curled in a smile hed seldom seena real one, full of anticipation.

Nathans come back! she burst out, not meeting Edwards eyes. Her joy sounded so real it hurt. He turned up yesterday, we talked At first, I didnt believe it could be true!

She finally stopped, turned to face him, and there was not a shred of regretonly joy and impatience.

Im grateful for these last six months, she went on, her voice softening. Its been peaceful, comfortable Youre a lovely man, Edward. But the truth is, I never truly loved you. Now Ive a chance at real happiness, I cant let it slip by.

Edward felt a cold emptiness spreading in his chest. Nathan. Always Nathan. The man Rachel spoke of with such tender reverence that Edward had long felt excluded. Hed known her feelings werent overbut hed hoped time and a shared life might heal the wound.

Have you spoken to him? he managed at last, his voice tight as if he could barely breathe. What was his excuse this time?

He didnt make any excuses, Rachel retorted sharply. He simply said he realised what a mistake hed made. That all this time hed been thinking about me!

She turned her back, packing away the last of her things, leaving Edward frozen, watching as his world seemed to dissolve.

We talked on the phone, she went on, rummaging through drawers to make sure she hadnt left anything. His parents forced him to study abroad, and he couldnt warn me before he left. Can you believe it? All that time he thought only of me, he just wasnt able to contact me. But now things are differentwell be together and have a happy life!

She remembered that callher first with Nathan after years apart. Nathans voice had been hesitant, quivering with nerves.

Rachel, I know this looks terrible. But you have to understandmy parents gave me no choice. It was Oxford or nothing. They threatened to cut me off entirely. I tried to resist, honestlybut they blocked my cards, froze my account. I didnt even have my own phone in the end!

Why didnt you ring me, even once? Rachels voice wavered, but she struggled to hide her hurt.

I couldnt. What would I say? That I went along with my parents like a coward?

At that, listening to his clumsy explanations, Rachel felt all her bitterness begin to melt. It was this call shed been waiting for. Every day, every hour.

Everything will be different now, Nathan promised. Ive dropped out, come home. I wont leave again.

Those words echoed in Rachels mind now as she stood before Edward.

She paused, surveyed the room for anything forgotten, finally registering Edwards pale face, eyes fixed and empty.

Dont worry, Rachel added, now softer but utterly determined. Ive already told everyone the weddings off. They know the situationI told them to spare you any hassle. Of course, therell be people offering you sympathy, but youre strong, youll get through.

She grabbed her suitcase, straightened the handle determinedly, then looked Edward square in the eye, with no hint of remorse.

And please, dont call or message me. Dont leave voicemails. My minds made up, and I wont change it!

Shouldering her bag, she wobbled under its weight, straightened herself, and strode to the door with steely resolve, as if any delay might weaken her conviction.

Edward stood frozen, pain and disbelief crushing him from the inside out. He drew in a deep breath, steadying himself. He wanted to shout, to demand answers, but he resistedthe last thing he needed was to appear desperate. He clenched his fists and unclenched them, forcing his tone to stay level, almost casual.

Perhaps youre rushing this? he said, watching Rachel closely.

She froze in the doorway, clutching her suitcase handle, but didnt turn around. Her shoulders were taut, knuckles white.

What if he doesnt want to start over? Edward pressed, stepping closer. Or he refuses to acknowledge your son? Or he hesitated, has he proposed to you already?

Rachel spun round, her face flushed with anticipation and irritation. She strode towards Edward, as if intent to drive her point home.

Hes asked for a serious talk! she snapped. Thats enough! And dont try to paint Nathan as the villainhes not like that!

Her voice wobbled, but she quickly regained control, pulling her bag towards the door.

You could at least help, she muttered, struggling with the heavy suitcase.

Edward instinctively moved to assist, but stopped. Why help someone who so clearly discarded him? It was painfully obvious Rachels heartand mindwere already elsewhere, with Nathan. She radiated confidence, almost euphoria, as if her real life was about to begin at last. Clearly, she imagined Nathan’s welcome, his promises, their shining future.

But the reality was different. The serious conversation Nathan wanted was not about a proposal or a reunion. He simply wanted to clear the air, to shut the door on the pastespecially as he had someone else.

Yet Rachel, lost in her dreams, saw only what she dared hope for after years of waiting.

She struggled out with her suitcase, hesitated at the door, but left without another glance or word.

Edward stayed standing in the centre of the room, staring at the closed door. Rachels perfume still lingered in the air, echoing with her parting words: Nathans not like that!

He sank onto a chair, exhausted, numb. It had all happened so quickly, so decisively. Now he had to learn to live with itwithout Rachel, without their planned future, without any illusions.

**************************

Nathan opened the door, puzzled by a visit so early in the day. On his doorstep stood Rachel, suitcases in tow, her face beaming with joy as her eyes glittered with hope. He was struck dumb by the sight, a single question ringing in his head: How could she get it so wrong?

Hed thought it was all over. Once Rachel started dating Edward, Nathan had finally breathed easy. He could move back to his hometown, settle in with his wife, and not fear tearful calls, accusations and drama. Hed even been quietly relieved Rachel had found someone elseit solved everything at once.

Yes, hed rung her and tried to explain that things had changed, even offered to meet on neutral ground, but it was just a formality!

And now here she was, on his doorstep, with clear expectations of more than a simple conversation. Nathan reflexively stepped back, trying to gather his thoughts.

Nathan! Rachel cried at the sight of him. Ive made up my mind. Im here, and now we can finally be together!

Her voice was sure, as if no other possibility existed. She advanced a step, but he raised his hand to hold her back.

Rachel, just wait a moment, he began gently as he could. Theres something you dont know.

Her eyebrows drew together, the smile fading.

What do you mean? We agreed to meetto talk about everything!

Nathan took a deep breath, knowing what had to come.

Im married, Rachel. I have been for two years. My wife and I are very happy.

Rachel froze, eyes wide with shock. For a few moments she couldnt seem to comprehend. Her face twistedpanic, hurt, anger all fighting for place.

What are you saying? she whispered, shaking her head. That cant be true You called me, you said everything had changed!

I called to say goodbye, Nathan replied quietly. I wanted to explain, to make it clear that chapters over, that weve both moved on. Im afraid you misunderstood.

Rachel stepped back, hands trembling, fists clenched as she tried to compose herself, but emotions poured out.

Youyou lied to me all this time! she shouted, her voice shaking in fury. How could you do this? I gave up everything for you!

Nathan felt irritation rising, though he didnt want a scene.

I never promised you anything, he said firmly. You decided on your own we should be together. I tried not to hurt you, so I spoke carefully. But now everythings clear, isnt it?

Rachel screamed, grabbed a suitcase and hurled it onto the floor, scattering clothes everywhere. She yelled, accused, demanded an explanation, her voice growing louder still.

Nathan was forced to firmly escort her out into the stairwell. He closed the door, hoping it would end there. But Rachel pounded on the door, screamed his name, attracting neighbours attentionraised voices, doors opening, someone threatening to call the police.

After an hour, as her cries intensified and neighbours grew openly hostile, Rachel finally stormed off. Before she disappeared from view, she turned, glared at his door through tears and shouted,

Ill be back! Youll regret this, you will!

Nathan leaned against the door, drained. He knew this wasnt the end. Rachel was stubborn, and if she set her mind on something, she wouldnt give up easily.

He wandered to the sitting room, collapsed on the sofa, deep in thought. He needed to act fast. Staying here was out of the questionRachel could come back, cause a scene, harass the neighbours. Nathan pulled out his mobile and opened a property website.

Ill have to sell the flat and find somewhere new, he resolved. Preferably on the far side of town

*****************************

Rachel wandered the streets, blind to everything around her. Tears clouded her eyes, thoughts blurred, her heart heavy and hollow. She still couldnt quite grasp what had happened. In her head, Nathan should have welcomed her with open arms, told her shed been missed, that theyd be together again at last. But reality had struckcruel and merciless.

She drifted through the city for hours before her feet led her back to Edwards building. Steeling herself, pulling her hair into place, she rang the bell, determined to look composed.

Edward didnt open straight away. But when he did, his face was cold and distant. He stood in the doorway, silently, making no move to invite her in.

Edward, please, Rachel began in a trembling voice. I know what I did. It was stupid and cruel. But I I want to put it right.

She paused, searching for words, fresh tears springing to her eyes.

Ill never mention Nathans name again, she pressed on, looking him full in the face. I promise. It was all a mistake. I know now that only with you can I be happy. Please, give me another chance.

Her voice was almost desperate, painfully sincere. In that moment she truly believed her own wordsshe thought that if Edward only forgave her, perhaps everything could be mended.

Edward shook his head. Not this timehe wouldnt let himself be drawn in again.

Rachel, he said quietly, youve made your choice. Two hours ago, you stood right here with your bags, telling me you were leaving for him. You were certain about what you wanted.

I was wrong! she pleaded. I didnt know what I was doing! I was justemotional!

Edward sighed, rubbing his hand over his hair. As tough as it was, he knew he couldnt let feeling win out again.

You didnt just leave meyou ran to him. You chose, and I accepted it. Now that it hasnt worked out, you want to come back?

Yes! Rachel cried. Because I love you. Only you.

He paused for a moment then, to her surprise, said steadily,

I dont believe you anymore. Goodbye, Rachel.

Rachel felt her world collapse. Edward faced her calmly, with no malice, without any doubt. He simply didnt believe her now.

Please she whispered, but her voice failed.

Im sorry, Edward replied. This is best for us both.

He closed the door, leaving Rachel standing on the landing. She stood there a moment longer, then sank down on the step, covered her face, and sobbed. This time, the tears werent for anger or hurtbut for the bitter realisation that she had lost both Nathan and Edward, and had no idea where to go next.